Goa is the only state in India where gambling is legal. The industry is still emerging but casinos can be found scattered across many of the five star hotels. Most of them don't have a lot of tables but they do have quite a few gaming machines.
Here's where you'll find the best Goa Casinos.
1. Casino Goa on the MV Caravela
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Casino Goa, operated by the Ramada Caravela Beach Resort, is located on a luxury 215 foot long cruise ship called the MV Caravela. The casino occupies most of the middle deck of the boat and is decorated unsubtlety in gold.
- Address: Panaji, anchored in the Mandovi River. Ph: (0832)2234 044.
- Entry Fee: 1,500 rupees for the weekday dinner cruise (Monday to Thursday), 1,800 rupees for the weekend dinner cruise (Friday to Sunday). Casino entry, buffet meals, and alcohol included.
- Opening Hours: 7.30 p.m. to 5 a.m. Monday-Thursday. 7.30 p.m. to 6 a.m. Friday-Sunday.
- Dress: Smart casual (no shorts or sleeveless shirts).
- Types of Games: American Roulette, Black Jack, Poker (includes live tables).
2. Las Vegas at the Leela
The Leela Kempinski is an exclusive Portuguese inspired hotel set on 75 luxurious acres of landscaped gardens in South Goa. It rates as one of the most 10 luxurious beach resorts in the world. In keeping with this, Las Vegas is a casino that exudes a stately elegance.
- Address: Mobor Beach, Cavelossim. Ph: (0832)2871 234.
- Entry Fee: 200 rupees (free for hotel guests).
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
- Dress: Smart casual.
- Types of Games: American Roulette, slot machines, derby games (all automated).
3. Chances at Vainguinim Valley Resort
Chances Casino is situated at boutique Vainguinim Valley Resort in the scenic Vainguinim Valley, not far from Panjim. The atmosphere is quite lively and it draws a crowd of hotel guest, locals, and tourists.
- Address: 184/189, Machado's Cove, Dona Paula. Ph: (0832)2452 201.
- Entry Fee: 200 rupees (free for hotel guests).
- Opening Hours: 24 hours.
- Dress: Smart casual.
- Types of Games: American Roulette, Poker, 35 slot machines, derby games.
4. Hacienda De Oro at the Holiday Inn Resort
Hacienda De Oro means house of gold in Spanish. For something a little different, this casino has a Mexican setting and is a relatively casual place that doubles up as a pub.
- Address: Mobor Beach, Cavelossim. Ph: (0832)2871 303.
- Entry Fee: 200 rupees (free for hotel guests).
- Opening Hours: Midday until midnight.
- Dress: Smart casual.
- Types of Games: American Roulette, slot machines, dice machines.
5. Winners at the Goa Marriot Resort
The Goa Marriot is adjacent to Mirama beach near the state's capital of Panjim. Its casino, Winners, is a relatively large and entertaining one.
- Address: Mirama Beach, Panajim. Ph: (0832)2463 333.
- Entry Fee: 200 rupees (free for hotel guests).
- Dress: Smart casual.
- Types of Games: American Roulette, Poker, Blackjack, slot machines.
